A prominent Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) youth pastor, Ayorinde AdeBello, has firmly denied allegations of engaging in homosexual relationships with male teenagers under his pastoral care, following his suspension from church duties amid an ongoing investigation.
AdeBello, a leading figure in RCCG’s Pastors Seed Family (PSF), an organization serving pastors’ children aged 13-30, and founder of the popular ‘He’ and ‘She conferences,’ faces serious accusations after a gossip blog published allegations of same-sex relationships with young men, allegedly promising opportunities in exchange for sexual favors.
“I have never had sex with any man,” AdeBello declared in an Instagram post on Monday. “I have never sodomised or engaged in any inappropriate relations with male youth or anyone under my guidance. I have never had sex with Mr Jedidiah or proposed sex to him. I have never requested or demanded any form of inappropriate acts as payment or favour in exchange for opportunities or platforms.”
The church’s response was swift and decisive. In an internal memo dated October 28, RCCG National Overseer Pastor Sunday Akande announced AdeBello’s suspension alongside another pastor, Deacon Oke Mayowa.
The memo, titled “RCCG Suspends Two Pastors Amidst Homosexuality Allegations,” emphasized the church’s opposition to homosexual acts, citing biblical references from Leviticus 18:22 and 1 Corinthians 6:9-10.
The PSF also took immediate action. In a statement dated October 25, PSF Global Council Secretary Laolu Oroge announced AdeBello’s suspension:
“This decision comes in light of the serious allegations that have materialised regarding your inappropriate conduct with teenage boys. These allegations undermine the core values of the RCCG Pastors Seed Family, which include holiness, accountability, transparency, and the protection of all individuals, particularly the vulnerable.”
Addressing the leaked WhatsApp chat that sparked the controversy, AdeBello offered context:
“The messages shared in a screenshot depict an entirely misconstrued conversation. It was part of a discussion on reproductive health and self-esteem in a youth WhatsApp group. The group has also discussed Bible studies, academic advice, and respectful relationships.”
The pastor expressed frustration at what he perceives as a deliberate misrepresentation:
“It is disheartening to see that the screenshot message has now been mischievously quoted out of context to portray me as someone who has sex with male teenagers. The instigators and accusers have used anonymity as their weapon of choice and struck from the shadows.”
The PSF has committed to conducting an independent investigation, stating: “Predatory behaviour against those to whom we owe a duty of care is gravely unacceptable and will not be tolerated if found true. We also owe those to whom we are called to serve, nurture, and protect a duty to listen, investigate, and redress grievances and allegations brought against those in positions of influence and authority.”
The organization emphasized the serious nature of the accusations: “We acknowledge the gravity of this situation and are committed to ensuring that the truth is revealed and appropriate actions are taken in response to these allegations. We expect your prompt compliance and wish to remind you that these allegations are criminal offences against the state and punishable by law, should you be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.”
The investigation is expected to conclude within two weeks, during which time both suspended pastors must refrain from their church duties.
